1. What Ferro Titanium Is
Ferro titanium is a titanium-iron alloy containing 20 to 40% titanium, produced by the aluminothermic reduction of titanium-bearing raw materials. It is the standard way to add titanium to steel and cast iron, because the alloy dissolves readily in the melt and gives predictable titanium recovery.
2. The Metallurgical Functions of Titanium
Grain refinement: titanium nitrides and carbides refine the grain, improving strength and toughness.
Inclusion control: titanium modifies oxide inclusions, improving cleanliness and fatigue life.
Deoxidation: titanium is a strong deoxidizer that removes oxygen from the bath.
Stabilization: in stainless steel, titanium stabilizes carbon and prevents sensitization and intergranular corrosion.
3. Applications in Steel
In structural steel, titanium microalloying refines the grain and improves strength. In stainless steel, titanium stabilization protects the weld zone from corrosion. In tool steel, titanium controls the grain and improves hardenability, and in high-strength grades titanium improves the strength-to-weight balance. The addition rate is calculated from the target titanium level and the recovery.
4. Use in Cast Iron
In cast iron, ferro titanium refines the graphite structure and improves the mechanical properties of heavy castings. It is added in controlled amounts, and the grade and particle size are selected by the foundry practice. Titanium additions also support the production of wear-resistant castings.
5. Grade and Quality Considerations
Ferro titanium grades are defined by the titanium content, typically 25 to 40%, with controlled aluminium, silicon, carbon and phosphorus. Buyers should verify the composition on the certificate, select the size by the addition method, and compare prices on the delivered cost per unit of titanium. The alloy is stored dry to avoid oxidation.
6. FAQ
Q1: What is ferro titanium used for? To add titanium to steel and cast iron for grain refinement, inclusion control, deoxidation and stainless stabilization.
Q2: How much titanium does it contain? Typically 20 to 40%, depending on the grade.
Q3: Why is titanium added to stainless steel? It stabilizes carbon and prevents sensitization and intergranular corrosion.
Q4: Is ferro titanium used in cast iron? Yes, to refine the graphite structure and improve casting properties.
Q5: What should buyers verify? Titanium content, impurity limits, particle size and the certificate per batch.
Q6: How are prices compared? On the delivered cost per unit of titanium, with the same grade basis.
